One easy to do way of generating new business is through referrals. Most people expect or hope referrals to happen, but you can also help your customers refer you. Sometimes all it takes is just “asking” them to do so.
If you have a list of client contact data and previous clients, you can just send out a mass email saying something like :
“Hey! Today I was just thinking about you and came to the conclusion that you are such an awesome and easy to work with client, after which I became curious if you might know other people like yourself (who at least partially is as awesome as you)? If you do, I’d super happy to help them out through my services like I am helping you.
Let me know what you think.
Anyways, I really want to thank you for being who you are. I really appreciate it.”
You can send the same email to previous clients as well. Just make sure to rewrite the email to past tense. And let them know that you’d love to work with them again if the occasion arises.
Another thing that will always act as a referral is reviews. As they are always online, always available and promotes your business to everyone that stumbles upon it. Additionally, reviews are a vital part of a buyer’s decision making in today’s times. Having case studies and self published reviews are great. But even better if they are coming directly from your customers and are hosted and made available by a 3rd party like TrustPilot, Yelp or Google My Business.
An interesting fact: Most customers will immediately google “{your business} reviews” after seeing your offer online.
So make sure that these reviews are there for the potential customers when they google your reviews.
You can ask for a review:
-After delivering your service or product
-After delivering a part of your service (if your business provides services that are big in scope like consulting or software development)
If you want to boost your chances of getting a review or a referral, ask after you gave something valuable. (First we always give, only then we ask). This could mean giving a “positive experience”, a bonus, a value, a positive gesture (small or big). Solve a big problem for them (business or personal). Leave a thank you note with the client, send them a gift basket on your work anniversary or their birthday, invite them for a dinner or a drink something like that.
Give something before you ask something, and they will be more willing to return the favour.
